BONN CLIMATE MEET
1. Context
The recent Bonn climate change conference aimed to be a turning point for addressing global warming. However, the conference fell short of expectations, similar to past notable climate conferences. Disagreements between developed and developing nations persisted, hindering progress on both longstanding and emerging issues. The lack of consensus was evident in the delayed agreement on meeting agendas, which was only finalized on the second-to-last day of the conference. Overall, Bonn failed to serve as the catalyst for accelerated climate action that was desperately needed to meet the crucial 1.5 or 2 degree Celsius targets.
2. Global Stocktake (GST) discussions at Bonn Climate Conference
- The third and final round of technical discussions on Global Stocktake (GST) concluded at the Bonn Climate Change Conference.
- GST is mandated by the 2015 Paris Agreement and assesses progress in the fight against climate change.
- GST framework was established, outlining elements to be included in the stocktake exercise.
- Disagreements between developed and developing countries persisted during the discussions, particularly concerning finance and 'historical responsibility'.
- Developing countries were displeased with Australia's attempt to downplay the historical responsibility of developed nations in causing global warming.
- Australia argued that historical emissions occurred when alternatives to fossil fuels were limited, and the harm caused by greenhouse gases was not well understood.
- Developing countries consider historical responsibility as a basis for differentiated burden-sharing in the climate change framework.
- The issue of historical responsibility is likely to resurface at COP 28 in Dubai and could lead to significant contention.
- The United States also expressed a similar stance during the Bonn meeting, emphasizing that bridging the adequacy gap is not solely the responsibility of developed nations.
- Developing countries view the erasure of historical responsibility as a sensitive red line that could lead to major conflicts.
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Image Source: The Indian Express3. Mitigation Work Programme (MWP)
- MWP was established at COP 26 in Glasgow in 2021 as an emergency mechanism solely focused on increasing emission cuts.
- The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates that global emissions much decrease by 43% from 2019 levels by 2030 to meet the 1.5-degree target.
- Emissions continue to rise, surpassing 2019 levels in 2021.
4. Challenges in MWP Discussions
- Developing countries raised concerns during MWP discussions, stating that while they are asked to strengthen climate actions, developed countries have not provided sufficient financial and technological support.
- Developing countries, including India, emphasize the need for international assistance in the form of funding and technology transfers to enhance their climate efforts.
5. Financing Challenges
- Developed countries have an obligation to support developing countries climate action plans through financial and technology transfers.
- Insufficient funds have been a persistent issue, with developing countries requiring up to US$6 trillion between now and 2030 to implement their climate action plans.
- Loss and damage needs of developing countries are estimated to be around US$400 billion annually, with additional funds required for various purposes.
- The committed goal of raising US$100 billion per year from 2020 by developed countries has not been fully realized.
6. Efforts for Financial Resources
- A new initiative, the Summit for a New Global Financial Pact, is taking place in Paris, aimed at redirecting global financial flows and generating new funds to combat climate change, biodiversity loss, and poverty.
- Several heads of state are expected to attend the two-day meeting.
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For Prelims: BONN Climate Challenge, New Global Financial Pact, Climate Change, Paris Agreement, Biodiversity, Mitigation Work Programme (MWP), Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), COP 28, and Global Stocktake (GST).
For Mains: 1. What efforts are being made to address financial challenges and support climate action plans of developing countries? (250 words).
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Previous year Questions
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1. Consider the following pairs: (UPSC 2020)
International agreement/setup Subject
1. Alma-Ata Declaration Healthcare of the people
2. Hague Convention Biological and chemical weapons
3. Talanoa Dialogue Global climate change
4. Under2 Coalition Child rights
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 4 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 2, 3, and 4 only
Answer: C
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Source: The Indian Express
